Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Genome Sequencing Paves the Way for Personalized Treatments

Genomic medicine experts in the U.S. and Canada have completed a key step in improving the understanding and treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare and often lethal malignancy that grows on the peritoneal membrane that surrounds the abdominal organs. Although its cause (exposure to asbestos) is well documented, treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma remains a challenge, in part because so much about the molecular biology of the disease is still a mystery.

But now, thanks to the efforts of scientists at the University of British Columbia, the British Columbia Cancer Agency, and PhenoPath Lab in Seattle, Washington, understanding of peritoneal mesothelioma is taking a dramatic leap forward.

Using cells from two patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, these researchers mapped the entire genome sequence of the disease for the first time. Whole genome sequencing can reveal underlying molecular alternations and mutations present in certain diseases, and can open the door for a more personalized approach to treatment.

Some of the information gleaned from the genome sequencing was not a surprise; the scientists found mutations on several known mesothelioma-related genes.

But there was also a great deal of new data gained. One of patients was revealed to have a previously unknown mutation that was associated with a “favorable outcome.” That patient responded well to treatment, despite having the more aggressive sarcomatoid variety of mesothelioma and tumors in multiple locations. The information could mean a more positive prognosis for other patients with the same mutation.

“The Personalized OncoGenomics initiative at the British Columbia Cancer Agency provides a unique opportunity to learn how to best analyze, interpret and apply rapidly emerging molecular information in the clinic,” writes lead investigator Brandon Sheffield of the University of British Columbia. “This approach to personalized medicine is in its infancy, and there is much to be learned from the wealth of molecular data generated, particularly in rare tumor types.”

In addition to the whole genome sequence, the researchers created expression profiles for each patient’s RNA, another possible target for mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment. Genomics is a new branch of medicine that involves using a patient’s genetic information to create personalized treatment plans. Oncogenomics is the application of this information to the diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma and other cancers.

"It has been over four years now and I can honestly say I am doing great. I highly recommend this book because it is inspirational and educational."

— Tom Crittenden, Maricopa, Az.

*Note: We have limited copies available for free. Free copies of the book are only available in the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

Recent Article

Belgian Mesothelioma Survival Study

November 17, 2018

A new Belgian mesothelioma survival study contains important insights for patients and doctors. Cancer center researchers did the study with data from the Belgian Cancer Registry. It includes more than 1400 patients. They received mesothelioma diagnosis between 2004 and 2012. The analysis is similar to past mesothelioma research. It shows the longest-surviving patients are the ones who have chemotherapy. Surgery patients also live longer. The third longer-living group are patients treated at experienced cancer centers. Mesothelioma Survival and Treatment The mesothelioma survival study asks what kinds of patients live longest and why. Researchers had to first see what treatments most patients receive. They found that most mesothelioma patients have chemotherapy. Chemotherapy usually includes pemetrexed (Alimta) and cisplatin. This is the … Continue reading Belgian Mesothelioma Survival Study»

Disclaimer

Surviving Mesothelioma® is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Cancer Monthly, Inc. and the website is owned and managed by Cancer Monthly, Inc. All of the information provided on this website or by an employee or contractor of Cancer Monthly is for informational purposes only. This website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. This website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease and it is not a substitute for professional care. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment or making any changes to an existing treatment. You should not delay in seeking or disregard medical advice based on information on this website or by any employee or contractor of Cancer Monthly. Following any information on this website or in the materials sent out does NOT guarantee similar future results.